Lawyer Roy Cohn, a name that evokes strong emotions and vivid memories, remains a controversial figure in American legal history. Known for his role as Senator Joseph McCarthy's chief counsel during the Army-McCarthy hearings, his aggressive tactics and unyielding pursuit of suspected communists left an indelible mark on the political landscape of the 1950s. Beyond his political career, Cohn's influence extended to the realms of law, real estate, and even the presidency, as he mentored a young Donald Trump. This blog post delves into the life, career, and legacy of Roy Cohn, exploring his impact on American politics and law.

The Legacy of Lawyer Roy Cohn

Early Life and Education

Roy Marcus Cohn was born on February 20, 1927, in New York City to an affluent Jewish family. His father, Albert Cohn, was a judge, and his mother, Dora Marcus, came from a banking family. Cohn's early life was marked by privilege and high expectations, with his mother closely monitoring his grades, appearance, and relationships. He attended Columbia University, where he earned a law degree at the age of 21. Cohn's education was accelerated by programs designed for returning war veterans, although he reportedly dodged the U.S. military draft by failing the physical endurance exams at West Point.

Key Facts:

Born: February 20, 1927, in New York City
Parents: Albert Cohn (judge), Dora Marcus (banking family)
Education: Columbia University (BA, LLB)

Career as a Prosecutor

Cohn's career took off when he became a federal prosecutor. He gained national attention for his role in the espionage trial of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, a Jewish couple accused of providing nuclear secrets to the Soviet Union. Cohn's aggressive prosecution led to the Rosenbergs' conviction and execution in 1953, marking a significant moment in Cold War history. His success in this high-profile case propelled him to greater prominence.

Key Achievements:

Prosecuted: Julius and Ethel Rosenberg
Outcome: Conviction and execution of the Rosenbergs

Chief Counsel for Joseph McCarthy

Cohn's most infamous role was as chief counsel for Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Army-McCarthy hearings in 1954. As McCarthy's right-hand man, Cohn assisted in the investigations of suspected communists, employing aggressive and often unethical tactics. The hearings were a pivotal moment in American history, exposing the extent of McCarthy's anti-communist crusade and the impact of Cohn's legal strategies.

Key Role:

Chief Counsel: Joseph McCarthy during the Army-McCarthy hearings

Legal and Political Fixer

In the 1970s and 1980s, Cohn became a prominent political fixer in New York City, representing and mentoring influential figures, including Donald Trump. His reputation as a ruthless and unscrupulous lawyer made him both feared and respected. Cohn's legal career was marred by multiple indictments, although he was acquitted three times and disbarred for unethical conduct in 1986.

Key Clients:

Donald Trump: Represented and mentored during his early business career

Controversial Legacy

Cohn's legacy is a complex one, marked by his contributions to American law and politics as well as his controversial methods and personal life. He was known for his aggressive tactics, which some viewed as necessary for rooting out communism, while others saw them as unethical and damaging. Cohn's influence on Donald Trump has also been a subject of scrutiny, with many believing that he taught Trump how to flout the rules and get away with it.

Key Controversies:

Aggressive Tactics: Viewed as necessary by some, unethical by others
Influence on Trump: Taught Trump to flout rules

Roy Cohn's life and career were marked by controversy, brilliance, and a lasting impact on American legal and political history. His aggressive tactics and unyielding pursuit of his goals left a legacy that continues to be debated. Whether viewed as a necessary force in the fight against communism or a symbol of unethical behavior, Cohn's influence on figures like Donald Trump ensures that his name will remain in the annals of American history.

Early Life and Education of Roy Cohn

Born on February 20, 1927, in New York City, Roy Marcus Cohn was the only child of Albert Cohn, a judge, and Dora Marcus, who came from a wealthy family. Growing up in a privileged environment, Cohn was surrounded by influential figures from a young age. His mother was known for her strong personality and played a significant role in shaping Cohn's ambitions and drive.

Cohn attended the Fieldston School, a private preparatory school in the Bronx, before enrolling at Columbia College at the age of 16. He graduated in 1946 with a Bachelor of Arts degree and went on to attend Columbia Law School. Cohn graduated from law school in 1947 at the age of 20, passing the New York bar exam soon after.

Key Facts:

Birth: February 20, 1927, New York City
Parents: Albert Cohn (judge) and Dora Marcus
Education: Fieldston School, Columbia College (BA), Columbia Law School (LLB)

Cohn's early exposure to the legal and political spheres through his father's connections and his own educational achievements set the stage for a prominent career in law and politics.

Career as a Prosecutor

Roy Cohn's career began to take shape in the early 1950s when he became an assistant U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. His aggressive approach and legal acumen quickly earned him a reputation as a formidable prosecutor. Cohn's most notable case during this period was his role in the prosecution of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, a couple accused of espionage for allegedly passing atomic secrets to the Soviet Union.

Key Case: The Rosenberg Trial

Role: Lead prosecutor
Charges: Espionage for passing atomic secrets to the Soviet Union
Outcome: Conviction and execution of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg in 1953

The Rosenberg trial was one of the most high-profile cases of the Cold War era, and Cohn's vigorous prosecution played a significant role in the couple's conviction. The case garnered national attention and solidified Cohn's reputation as a tough and relentless attorney.

Quote: "I never once thought that they were innocent." - Roy Cohn on the Rosenberg trial

Cohn's success in the Rosenberg case propelled him into the national spotlight and paved the way for his next major role as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy.

Chief Counsel for Joseph McCarthy

Roy Cohn’s most infamous role was as the chief counsel for Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Army-McCarthy hearings in the early 1950s. This period marked the height of McCarthyism, a time characterized by intense anti-communist sentiment and aggressive investigations into suspected communist activities in the United States.

Key Responsibilities:

Investigations: Cohn was instrumental in leading the investigations into alleged communist infiltration within the U.S. government and military. His aggressive questioning and legal strategies played a significant role in the hearings.
Tactics: Cohn’s tactics were often controversial, employing intimidation and fear to extract information and confessions from witnesses. His methods garnered both support and criticism, contributing to the polarized view of McCarthyism.

The Army-McCarthy Hearings:

Context: The hearings began in 1954, focusing on accusations that the Army had harbored communists and treated certain Army officials preferentially. These hearings were highly publicized and broadcasted on national television, bringing the issue into American living rooms.
Outcome: The hearings ultimately led to a loss of public support for McCarthy and his methods. The Senate censured McCarthy later that year, marking a significant decline in his influence and the end of the McCarthy era.

Quote: “Have you no sense of decency, sir?” – Joseph N. Welch to Joseph McCarthy, a famous rebuke that highlighted the aggressive and morally questionable tactics used during the hearings.

Cohn’s role in the McCarthy hearings solidified his reputation as a formidable lawyer but also as a controversial and divisive figure. His association with McCarthyism would follow him throughout his career, impacting both his professional and personal life.

Legal and Political Fixer

In the 1970s and 1980s, Roy Cohn transitioned from his role as a prosecutor and McCarthy's chief counsel to becoming one of New York City's most influential legal and political fixers. His reputation as a ruthless and unscrupulous lawyer made him both feared and respected in legal and political circles. Cohn's client list included some of the most powerful and wealthy individuals in the country, and his influence extended to various sectors, including real estate, entertainment, and politics.

Key Clients and Cases:

Donald Trump:
- Cohn played a significant role in shaping the early career of Donald Trump. He represented Trump in several high-profile cases, including a 1973 lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice accusing Trump and his father of discriminatory rental practices. Cohn's aggressive defense tactics helped Trump settle the case without admitting guilt.
- Quote: "Roy was a great lawyer and he became a very good friend of mine." - Donald Trump
Studio 54:
- Cohn represented the owners of the infamous nightclub Studio 54, Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager, during their legal battles with the IRS. Despite the eventual conviction of Rubell and Schrager for tax evasion, Cohn's legal maneuvers delayed the proceedings and minimized the impact on the nightclub's operations.
New York Yankees:
- Cohn also represented George Steinbrenner, the owner of the New York Yankees, in various legal matters, including disputes with Major League Baseball and labor unions.

Controversial Tactics:

Cohn was known for his aggressive and often unethical legal tactics. He was not afraid to bend the rules, intimidate opponents, and use his connections to achieve favorable outcomes for his clients. His approach to the law was characterized by a willingness to exploit legal loopholes and a disregard for conventional ethical standards.

Disbarment:

Cohn's career was marred by multiple allegations of professional misconduct. In 1986, after years of legal battles and investigations, he was disbarred by the New York State Supreme Court for unethical and unprofessional conduct, including misappropriation of client funds, lying on a bar application, and pressuring a client to amend his will.

Quote: "Roy Cohn is a symbol of the dark side of American politics and law." - Victor S. Navasky, journalist and author

Legacy:

Despite his disbarment and the controversies surrounding his career, Cohn's influence on American law and politics remains significant. His mentorship of Donald Trump and his role in shaping the legal strategies of some of the most powerful figures in the country have left a lasting impact. Cohn's legacy is a complex one, marked by both his legal prowess and his ethical transgressions.

Quick Overview of Legal and Political Fixer:

Client	Role
Donald Trump	Legal representation in high-profile cases
Studio 54	Defense in tax evasion cases
New York Yankees	Legal representation for owner George Steinbrenner
Controversial Tactics	Aggressive, often unethical legal maneuvers
Disbarment	Disbarred in 1986 for unethical conduct
Legacy	Significant influence on American law and politics

Roy Cohn's career as a legal and political fixer showcases his ability to navigate complex legal landscapes and his willingness to employ controversial tactics to achieve his goals. His legacy continues to be debated, reflecting the dual nature of his contributions to American law and politics.

Controversial Legacy

Roy Cohn's legacy is a tapestry woven with threads of legal brilliance, aggressive tactics, and deep controversy. His contributions to American law and politics are significant, yet his methods and personal conduct continue to spark debate. This section delves into the multifaceted nature of Cohn's legacy, examining the controversies and lasting impacts of his career.

Aggressive Legal Tactics:

Cohn was renowned for his aggressive and often ruthless legal tactics. His approach to the law was characterized by a willingness to exploit legal loopholes and a disregard for conventional ethical standards. While some viewed his methods as necessary for achieving justice, others saw them as unethical and damaging to the legal profession.

Influence on Donald Trump:

One of the most enduring aspects of Cohn's legacy is his influence on Donald Trump. As a mentor and legal advisor, Cohn played a pivotal role in shaping Trump's approach to business and legal matters. Trump's own career and legal strategies have often been compared to Cohn's, reflecting the impact of Cohn's mentorship.

Quote: "Roy was a great lawyer and he became a very good friend of mine." - Donald Trump

Disbarment and Ethical Controversies:

Cohn's career was marred by multiple allegations of professional misconduct. In 1986, after years of legal battles and investigations, he was disbarred by the New York State Supreme Court for unethical and unprofessional conduct. The disbarment stemmed from accusations of misappropriating client funds, lying on a bar application, and pressuring a client to amend his will.

Public Perception and Media Portrayal:

Cohn's life and career have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and films. He is often portrayed as a symbol of the dark side of American politics and law, embodying the dangers of unrestrained ambition and unethical conduct. This portrayal has shaped public perception of Cohn, casting a long shadow over his legacy.

Cultural Impact:

Cohn's legacy extends beyond the legal and political realms. He has been depicted in various cultural works, including the Tony Kushner play "Angels in America," where he is portrayed as a complex and morally ambiguous character. These portrayals contribute to the ongoing debate about Cohn's impact on American society.

Quote: "Roy Cohn is a symbol of the dark side of American politics and law." - Victor S. Navasky, journalist and author

Mixed Legacy:

Ultimately, Roy Cohn's legacy is a mix of admiration and condemnation. He is remembered for his legal acumen and influence on significant political figures, but his unethical tactics and controversial methods have left an indelible mark on his reputation. The duality of his legacy continues to fuel discussions about the ethical boundaries of legal practice and the balance between ambition and integrity.

Quick Overview of Controversial Legacy:

Aspect	Description
Aggressive Tactics	Renowned for ruthless legal methods
Influence on Trump	Mentored and shaped Donald Trump's approach
Disbarment	Disbarred in 1986 for unethical conduct
Public Perception	Often portrayed as a symbol of the dark side of politics
Cultural Impact	Depicted in various cultural works, including "Angels in America"
Mixed Legacy	Admired for legal acumen, condemned for unethical tactics

Roy Cohn's controversial legacy serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between power, ethics, and the law. His career offers valuable lessons for future generations of legal professionals, highlighting the importance of integrity and the potential consequences of unethical conduct.

Roy Cohn's life and career were marked by brilliance, controversy, and a lasting impact on American legal and political history. From his early days as a prosecutor to his role as a political fixer and mentor to influential figures like Donald Trump, Cohn's legacy is a testament to the complexities of power and ambition. While his aggressive tactics and ethical transgressions have left a blemish on his reputation, his contributions to the legal field and his influence on American politics cannot be ignored.